Golden State Warriors vs. Toronto Raptors – As the Golden State Warriors (29-27) prepare to face off against the Toronto Raptors (22-36) in a fascinating NBA encounter, fans and bettors alike are turning their attention to the best sportsbook in Canada for the latest odds and insights. This matchup, taking place at the Scotiabank Arena, not only highlights the contrasting seasons both teams are experiencing but also puts the spotlight on key players who could dictate the outcome of the game.
Golden State Warriors vs. Toronto Raptors
Date & Time: Friday, March 1, 2024, at 7:30 PM ET
Location: Scotiabank Arena
TV: SportsNet
Golden State Warriors vs. Toronto Raptors Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Warriors | TBD | TBD | TBD |
| Raptors | TBD | TBD | TBD |
Golden State Warriors Analysis
The Warriors have turned things around after a slow start, ranking 7th in the NBA in offensive rating. They are led by superstar Stephen Curry, averaging 27.7 points and 5.1 assists per game. Curry remains one of the best shooters and scorers in the league, with the ability to get hot and pour in points in a hurry. Klay Thompson has also given the team a boost, providing another elite perimeter threat.
Defensively, the Warriors have been average, ranking 15th in defensive rating. They have been better as of late, but still have weaknesses containing dribble penetration at times. Their defensive rebounding has also been inconsistent. But the Warriors typically make up for it with solid team defense led by Draymond Green anchoring things from the back line.
Curry comes into this matchup in great form, having scored 35+ points in 4 of his last 7 games, including a 53 point outburst against Atlanta. With Thompson by his side and the Raptors having just an average defense, expect Stephen Curry to continue his strong recent play with another big offensive performance on Friday night. His elite shooting and shot creation abilities will be tough for Toronto to slow down.
Toronto Raptors Analysis
Despite their losing record, the Raptors have fielded a respectable offense, ranking 10th in efficiency. They play an uptempo style and have multiple scoring threats on the perimeter led by rising star RJ Barrett. Barrett is posting 20.3 points per game along with 6.6 rebounds and 3.8 assists. His ability to attack the basket and shoot from the outside gives Toronto a versatile primary option.
Defensively is where the Raptors have major issues, rating 23rd in efficiency. They struggle to defend the 3 point line and contain dribble penetration consistently. Opponents are shooting 37.1% from deep against Toronto, one of the highest marks league-wide. They also foul often, ranking in the bottom third of the league. These weaknesses could be exploited by the elite shooting and foul drawing abilities of Curry and Thompson.
Barrett is coming off a solid 30 point showing in his last game before the All Star break. But at just 23 years old, he has been prone to bouts of inconsistency and inefficient shooting this year. And he could have his hands full trying to keep up with Curry defensively. Still, his versatile offensive game gives him a chance to exploit the Warriors defense as well.
Golden State Warriors vs. Toronto Raptors Against the Spread
The Warriors are 16-8 against the spread (ATS) on the road this season, tied for the 3rd best mark in the NBA. They have covered in 3 of their last 5 overall and tend to play up to competition. The Raptors meanwhile have been strong at home ATS with a 15-14 record. But they have failed to cover in 2 of their last 3 at Scotiabank Arena. With Curry and Thompson playing at an elite level together right now, the Warriors seem poised to continue their recent ATS success.
The Raptors have gone over the total in 2 of their last 5 matchups. But the under has hit in 15 of their 28 home games this year. The Warriors’ games have gone over just once in their last 5 outings. And with both teams having faced scoring droughts at times, another lower scoring affair could be in store here.
Golden State Warriors vs. Toronto Raptors Free Pick
Based on trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Golden State Warriors. Take the Warriors to win given their current form and the matchup advantages they possess.
Spread: Golden State Warriors. The Warriors is a strong play to cover what should be a close game for most of the way before they ultimately pull away late.
Total: Over. Both teams have trends that suggest high-scoring affairs, with the Warriors’ offensive prowess likely pushing the total over.
Predicted Score: Golden State Warriors 118, Toronto Raptors 110
The Warriors coming out hot and playing with energy from the opening tip seems like the most reliable bet here. With Curry looking unstoppable lately, he should lead them to a wire-to-wire victory to continue their push up the West standings. Those looking for the best daily NBA free picks should keep riding Golden State during their resurgent run.
